Pakistan, Afghanistan Ease Tensions via express epaper
The visit has paved the way for increased trade, transit, and economic cooperation between the two countries, with a focus on mutual interests and regional stability. As Pakistan and Afghanistan continue to navigate their complex relationship, the progress made during Dar's visit will be crucial in determining the future of their bilateral ties.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar's recent visit to Kabul has marked a significant breakthrough in bilateral trade and political issues between Pakistan and Afghanistan, easing diplomatic tensions that have long plagued the relationship between the two neighboring countries.
The visit, which took place on April 19, 2025, saw significant economic and trade concessions, including the elimination of additional tariffs on Afghan transit goods and the reduction of transit tax on Container Cross Stuffing (CSS). The Afghan side welcomed these concessions, as well as the replacement of "bank guarantees" with "insurance guarantees" and other benefits. Despite these positive developments, security concerns remain unresolved, including the issue of Afghan refugees and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Dar acknowledged that the relationship between the two countries is sour, citing mistrust, trade deficit, and repatriation of Afghan refugees as major issues. However, he emphasized the importance of addressing security concerns, particularly terrorism, and promised to prevent any arbitrary action against Afghan refugees in Pakistan. The Afghan government expressed concerns over the repatriation of refugees, including the handling of deportations and the arrest of refugees, and Islamabad has been asked to address these concerns.
The TTP issue remains a major hurdle, with security analysts and experts citing a lack of long-term commitment from the Pakistani side. The Afghan government has agreed to address Pakistan's concerns about the TTP, but Islamabad has been asked to show flexibility in its approach. Despite these challenges, the visit was seen as a positive step towards improving relations between the two countries, with both sides agreeing to maintain high-level engagement and establish joint committees to follow up on key issues.
As the two countries continue to work towards improving their relationship, it remains to be seen whether they can overcome the significant security challenges that still exist. However, the breakthroughs achieved during Dar's visit provide a glimmer of hope for a more stable and cooperative future between Pakistan and Afghanistan.